Best Car Reviews - 1998 Aston Martin DB7 Volante

Introduction

The 1998 Aston Martin DB7 Volante is a testament to the elegance and engineering prowess synonymous with the prestigious British marque. Released during a period of transformation for Aston Martin, the DB7 Volante brought together timeless design, exhilarating performance, and luxury in a convertible format. It was crafted for enthusiasts who value classic automotive aesthetics and the thrill of open-top driving. The DB7 Volante's allure lies in its combination of sophisticated styling and spirited performance, making it stand out among its contemporaries.

Design and Exterior Features

The DB7 Volante exemplifies classic sports car design with its sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and elegant lines. Its shape resonates with heritage cues, yet remains distinctly modern.

Size: Compact yet muscular, hinting at its performance capabilities.
Details: Chrome accents and Aston Martin's iconic grille offer a striking presence.
Key Design Elements: Sculpted bonnet, elegant fold-down convertible roof.

Standout exterior features include beautifully integrated headlights, stylish alloy wheels, and a refined rear diffuser, which enhance its sophisticated charm.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the DB7 Volante, luxury meets comfort in a harmonious cabin layout that emphasizes driver engagement and passenger relaxation. High-quality materials exhibit the car's pedigree.

Materials: Premium leather upholstery and walnut veneer trim exude class.
Comfort Features: Supportive seats and ergonomic controls ensure a relaxed drive.
Convenience Features: Automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats.

The cabin's plush feel and thoughtful layout make long drives a pleasure, offering both luxury and practicality.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the DB7 Volante houses a 6-cylinder engine named ASTON-DB7 paired with a manual 5-speed transmission, delivering exhilarating performance.

Engine Specs: 6-cylinder, Premium Gasoline, rear-wheel drive.
Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.5 seconds.

The car's performance is as gratifying as its visuals, with responsive handling and a smooth power delivery. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the steering's precision and the chassis's balance provide an engaging drive. With a fuel consumption of 19.834 l/100 km, efficient driving requires a light foot in urban environments but improves substantially on open roads.

Technology and Connectivity

While technology isn't the cornerstone of the DB7 Volante, it integrates features that cater to the essential needs of late 90s drivers.

Infotainment System: Integrated audio system with AM/FM radio and CD player.
Connectivity Options: Minimal, focusing more on driving purity.
Standout Tech Features: Driver-focused instrumentation.

In an era before digital screens became ubiquitous, the car's tech offerings aim for minimal distraction.

Safety Features

While lacking modern-day advancements, the DB7 Volante comes equipped with fundamental safety basics expected of its era.

Standard Features: Dual airbags, anti-lock brakes.
Advanced Features: Traction control.
Certifications: Driver-focused safety optimizations ensure control.

Despite its classic charm, safety remains adequate for its time.

Pricing and Variants

Base Price: Roughly $140,000 USD when new. At this price point, it was a significant investment, striking a balance between exclusivity and performance.

In its category, the DB7 Volante was comparable to models like the Jaguar XK8 and the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, offering a unique blend of British luxury.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exquisite design with timeless appeal.
Quality materials and luxury interior.
Exciting performance under spirited driving.
Convertible experience enhances freedom.
Brand heritage and exclusivity.

Cons

High fuel consumption for city driving.
Limited interior tech by modern standards.
Maintenance costs can be steep.
Resale value lower than expected.
Connectivity features are minimal.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owners can expect annual maintenance costs to be premium, reflective of its luxury marque. However, with proper care, the DB7 Volante rewards with reliable performance.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.2/10
Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8.5/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The design is timeless – gets looks everywhere I go."
"Refined and comfortable but can be a bit thirsty on the gas."
"The ride is exhilarating, especially with the top down. Pure fun."
"Love the interior materials; feels more special than contemporary rivals."
"It's prone to small electrical issues, but the drive makes up for it."

Owners praise the DB7 Volante for its styling and engaging drive while noting occasional reliability quirks.

Best Cars in this Category

1998 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet
1998 Jaguar XK8 Convertible
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
1998 BMW Z3 Roadster
1998 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

Summary

The 1998 Aston Martin DB7 Volante remains best suited for those who appreciate the blend of classic styling and dynamic driving. Collectors and enthusiasts seeking a piece of automotive history with modern-day usability will find immense value in this model. While it does have its trade-offs, its design sophistication, and driving pleasure make it a captivating choice.